The Cincinnati Bengals’ training camp opens today (Wednesday, July 29)! It’s the unofficial/official start to the 2026 season. Training camp will launch us into the preseason, and the preseason brings us to Week 1.
The Bengals took some big swings this offseason, including trading the No. 10 overall selection in the draft to the Giants for Dexter Lawrence. With the talent level on the offense, a stable offensive line and a defense that looks very different on paper, there is a high level of excitement
in the city despite the fact they’ve missed the playoffs for three consecutive seasons.
Here are some story lines as the Bengals get back into fighting shape:
Paul Dehner Jr. reported back on the Bengals’ annual media luncheon.
Yes, optimism rolls in as thick as the July humidity at the start of training camp every year, but undeniably, this year felt different than most and certainly a significant departure from the last three seasons filled with contract squabbles and Burrow rehabs.
With the news the Eagles extended defensive tackle Jalen Carter to a massive extension, Yahoo Sports’ Duncan Day says the Bengals got a sweetheart of a deal with Lawrence. Carter, who is a few years younger, is making an average of $10 million more annually.
PFF’s 2026 Cincinnati Bengals season preview is out.
Were it not for an injury that sidelined Joe Burrow from Weeks 3-12 last season, the Cincinnati Bengals could have made a serious playoff run despite their struggles on defense. While they are running it back with the same head coach and coordinators, they made significant additions on defense this offseason, and expectations are high for the 2026 season.
While Bengals owner Mike Brown didn’t take questions from the media during their annual luncheon on Monday like he usually does, The Cincinnati Enquirer’s Jason Williams notes his presence is still very much felt in the building.
The Baltimore Ravens have signed another former Bengal. Offensive lineman Hakeem Adeniji, who started in the Super Bowl for Cincinnati at right guard, has signed with the Ravens. Since playing in front of Burrow, he has signed one-year deals with Vikings, Browns and Cowboys before returning once again to the AFC North.
With camp starting today, there are plenty of story lines to pay attention to. What battles are you keeping a close eye on, and which bubble players or outside shots do you have a soft spot for?
Discuss in the comments.
Who Dey!
